Marlborough Weekly 14 February 2023

Tops at T20

Power boost The Avengers

Star power

Wild weather closes Strait

Wild weather and massive waves will close the Tory Channel to shipping.

With the worst of ex-cyclone Gabrielle expected to arrive in the region today (Tuesday), shipping operations to and from Picton have been suspended.

And boaties are being advised to stay out of the water until at least Wednesday.

Marlborough Harbourmaster Jake Oliver says he expects marine conditions to worsen. “Marine conditions will be pretty bad for at least the next two days. We’re expecting wind gusts of up to 100 km/h around Picton and possibly even higher in the outer Marlborough Sounds.” He says following discussions with Port Marlborough and the ferry operators, shipping operations to and from Picton will be suspended tomorrow for all ships over 350 gross tons.  “Port Marlborough has advised it will suspend marine operations from 10.00 am until 10.00 pm tomorrow, Tuesday.”

“These times are subject to change depending on the movement of the weather system.” Tory Channel will be closed from 10.00 am tomorrow until 2.00 pm on Wednesday 15 February, due to the predicted wave heights and wind strength.

Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor is encouraging residents to prepare as ex-cyclone Gabrielle travels south.

“Our advice is to use today to prepare and stay off the roads, and also off the water.”  She says people are strongly advised to keep up with weather forecasts.

Year 12 Marlborough Girls’ College students involved in the Stars Peer Mentor programme have met their new charges. Photo: Supplied.

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Rubbish haul an eye opener

A huge 322kg of rubbish has been hauled away as part of a wine company’s commitment to keeping Marlborough’s coastlines clean.

The 32-strong team from Babich Wines devoted a day to complete

a coastline clean-up along the Wairau Bar.

Among the rubbish, the crew collected a tent, a bicycle, barbecue grill and a washing machine.

Babich Wines’ Chief Executive Officer (CEO) David Babich says

the sheer amount of rubbish collected was a real eye opener. As part of the company’s sponsorship of the Sustainable Charitable Trust, Babich Wines helps communities with a hands-on approach.

“For us, sponsoring Sustainable Coastlines and supporting communities to clean-up and prevent litter pollution on our beaches is just as important as what we do in our family’s vineyards, David says.

Babich Wine employees celebrate after a successful

cleaning the coastline along the Wairau Bar. Photo: Supplied.

Meera Yadav

Sheryl Markham

Bradley Taane

Volunteers fill vital transport gap

MATT BROWN matt@topsouthmedia.co.nz

A volunteer-driven service that ferries Picton and Sounds residents to health services in Blenheim has been given a leg up by council.

The Marlborough Community Vehicle Trust, which offers a transport service to health appointments for trust members, was gifted a Holden Cruz – the vehicle previously used by the defunct Marlborough4Fun.

And with rising fuel costs and a hiatus due to Covid, Trust chairman Brian Henstock says council and the community’s support has been invaluable.

“We were seriously affected by Covid and rising fuel costs,” he says.

“Council saved us completely – they’re paying our operating costs for a couple of years, now.”

“The last couple of years have been a bit of a crippler – Covid knocked the wind out of elective surgeries.

“Our future’s assured now the council is behind us.”

Despite a few hard years, Brian says the Trust has gone from strength to strength.

Boasting 28 volunteer drivers, 10 board members and four cars,

Brian says the service has taken off.

“Going to Wairau for a health appointment can be very expensive – travel to Nelson can be even more expensive particularly if overnight accommodation is required,” says Brian.

“Some young families can’t afford to travel to Nelson by other means.”

The Marlborough Community Vehicle Trust only take passengers who are members of the Trust – it costs $20 for a lifetime membership. Then they charge per trip: $30 return to Wairau Hospital – or a health appointment in Blenheim, and $60 return to get to Nelson.

“We transport passengers – we provide the equivalent of a taxi service,” Brian says.

“But we don’t compete with taxis. We’re a trust, and to be able to get a ride, you have to be a member of the trust.”

He says the most difficult trip for them is people travelling to Nelson to receive dialysis. These can often turn into a 12-hour day for the volunteers.

“From Picton and Blenheim we have at least a two-hour drive to Nelson.

“NMH need to book appointments with that in mind.”

Brian says they have seen a massive uptake in membership, with St John providing the only other option for a Picton to Blenheim hospital shuttle.

The Trust is the only low-cost option for health appointments in Nelson.

“Some people lose their licenses or can’t rely on their family and it maintains old people’s sense of independence.”

Brian says the Trust performs rescues; picking up a discharged patient from Nelson Hospital.

“People get flown to Nelson from Blenheim for whatever reason, and they need to get home,” he says.

“They often have no clothes, no money; picture a 78-year-old nana in her nighty waiting to be picked up.” Their drivers are doing the miles, too, Brian says. Two of their vehicles have more than 300,000 kilometres on the clock – those vehicles need replacement soon. He says they’ve performed as well as they have due to the gratis, expert servicing done by Picton Tools & Tyres and Motorworld.

“People are very generous, they just give. We have received donations from Picton Flower Ladies, Picton Medical Trust, Picton Resource Centre, Signs Now, and members of the public.

“They’re not seeking promotion –they just said, you’re doing a good job. More people are generous than the opposite.”

“At the last Senior Expo we received hundreds of dollars and we will be present at this year’s Senior Expo on March 7th if people wish to join the Trust.

The Trust, at the advice of MP Stuart Smith, have applied to the Lotteries Commission for funding for a new vehicle – a hybrid Toyota or Kia, Brian says. “We’re here to provide a service for trust members.

“It’s a privilege to be a chairman of them all – they’re all wonderful, helpful people.”

Marlborough Community Vehicle Trust chairman Brian Henstock. Photo: Matt Brown.

Power boost for scholarship winner

She’s made her mark in Marlborough and now well-known rangatahi Te Ao Mārama Nepia is off to the capital to do the same, with the support of a strong homecrowd.

The 2022 Marlborough Girls’ College manukura head girl had one last important appointment before she packed her bags for Wellington: a ceremony at Omaka Marae where she was presented with the Marlborough Lines Tertiary Scholarship for Māori for 2022.

Set up in 1997, the scholarship is offered to a tertiary student who resides in the Marlborough Lines catchment area and who has links to one or more of the tangata whenua iwi in the Marlborough Lines catchment area –Ngāti Apa ki te Rā Tō, Ngāti Toa Rangatira ki Wairau, Ngāti Kuia, Ngāti Koata, Rangitāne o Wairau, Ngāti Rārua, Te Ātiawa o Te Waka-a-Māui and Ngāi Tahu. To date, the scholarship has supported 27 Wairau locals in their tertiary studies, including Te Ao Mārama’s father, cultural development expert Kiley Nepia.

Marlborough Lines Tertiary Scholarship selection panel member Rita Powick was at the

presentation ceremony at Omaka Marae on Tuesday, 7 February.

“It was a wonderful celebration.

Te Ao Mārama is an exemplary model of te ao Māori and so to see such a beautiful, culturally strong taiohi of Te Tauihu receive this scholarship was really heartening and a really proud occasion for so many.

“Te Ao Mārama is a tribute to her whānau, her marae and her iwi. She works hard and applies herself to all that she pursues, she’s an inspiration for our tamariki and rangatahi and we are really excited to see her spread her wings and continue her studies.”

Te Ao Mārama (Ngāti Apa ki te Rā Tō, Rangitāne o Wairau, Ngāti Kuia, Ngāi Tahu) has already achieved a lot in her 18 years: as well as being manukura head girl, Te Ao Mārama has taken part in cultural development and leadership initiatives since she was 12. More recently, with her younger sister Māreikura, she helped develop a programme designed to develop the cultural capacity and confidence of rangatahi. She has also twice been awarded MGC’s Kath Hemi Award for service, leadership and academic achievement and has represented her school, iwi and marae at the regional and national Ngā Manu

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Kōrero Māori speech competitions. She also has her own small business, The World of Light, and has recently launched a clothing line, Tita.

This year though, she says her main focus will be business studies at Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University.

“I am so grateful for this scholarship, it will go a long way to helping me cover my study costs. I’m really excited to be attending university and I want to thank everyone who has supported me on my journey so far.

“I feel really fortunate to have grown up with a strong sense of cultural identity and love being of service to my people and community. My Māori culture is my superpower and I want other rangatahi to believe that as well.”

Te Ao Mārama’s father, Kiley, said it was a proud day, made extra special thinking about the role Te Ao Mārama’s kuia, the late Kath Hemi, played in establishing the scholarship in the late 1990s.

“We are so proud of Te Ao Mārama’s achievements and the various roles she plays within her iwi,

marae and the wider community. It was really special to be able to acknowledge the scholarship and the support of Marlborough Lines, not just for Te Ao Mārama, but for all our tamariki and rangatahi, so that they can see what is possible, see what excellence looks like from a Māori point of view, and see it is within their reach as well.

“We want to thank the village who have helped contribute to her growth, we are excited to see her flourish in the next stage of life.”

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Marlborough Lines Commercial Manager Scott Wilkinson was at Omaka Marae in Blenheim last week to present Te Ao Mārama Nepia with the Marlborough Lines Tertiary Scholarship for Māori for 2022. Photo: Supplied.

Famous falcon flys the coop

Diana Dobson, aviary manager and one of the pillars of the Marlborough Falcon Trust, still tears up when talking about the sudden loss of her beloved Fern, for so long the trust’s popular advocacy bird.

Their 11-year relationship ended in November while filming at the Brancott Estate Heritage Vineyard, near Blenheim. The film crew had almost finished when Fern shot high into the sky and did not return.

“I just knew that was it. I just knew,” said Diana, who believes Fern spotted a distant male and went to investigate.

Diana had Fern since she was a 10-week-old chick, spent countless hours training her, and used her in hundreds of flying displays and school visits. Now she’s been left devastated.

“With birds of prey, you’re the one that loves them but really they don’t love you,” she says. “We build a bond, we build trust, but it’s all forged through food and nothing else. You don’t have the connection like you’d have with a dog.”

However, Diana still regards Fern as a “marvellous advocate” for the trust. “I have to look at all

she taught the people of Marlborough,” she says, recalling visits to schools, kindergardens and retirement homes.

Lizzie Macfarlane, who manages the trust’s education programme, was with Diana on many of those trips. She gives talks to primary school pupils and hosts school groups while they watch flying displays at Brancott Estate and visit the aviary nearby.

Lizzie, who works on average about 10 hours per week, and Diana are the trust’s only two paid employees. Trust chairman Andy Frost and five other trustees -Phil Bradfield, Jeff Clarke, Sandie Sutton, Rob White and Tony Roddan are all voluntary.

In addition, about 50 volunteers bring what Andy calls an “amazing spread of skills” to tasks such as cutting up meat and feeding the falcons, helping with the release of young birds, maintenance work and gardening.

The trust champions a threepronged conservation strategy: education, the rehabilitation of injured birds, and a captive breeding programme using those birds which would not survive if released.

“It’s wonderful to see the injured birds and know that their chicks will be heading back into the

wild,” says Lizzie, who taught in Costa Rica, Kenya, Auckland and Blenheim’s Whitney Street School before joining the trust more than five years ago.

The best season so far produced 12 chicks while last year’s total was four. Over the past 10 years 77 chicks have been released which the trust believes is about 1 percent of the total kārearea population.

The number of New Zealand falcons, which range from Fiordland to the Waikato, is estimated at between 5000 and 8000, meaning this country’s only native bird of prey is officially “at risk”.

Falcons are under threat mainly because, as ground-nesting birds, they are terribly vulnerable to a host of predators. However, the trust has a wider vision than just the kārearea, says Lizzie.

“It’s a much bigger picture … educating on the importance of protecting all our native species and hoping everyone can play an active role in preventing further extinctions.”

Marlborough Lines sponsors this programme which the trust hopes to extend in March, taking its message into kindergartens and pre-schools using a falcon puppet, a large picture book, plus,

when Fern’s replacement is ready, a real bird.

The enthusiasm of the children has led to four schools “adopting” falcons – Witherlea (whose bird is Jet), Renwick (Flash), Rapaura and Fairhall.

Diana has already begun the long process of training a potential replacement bird, Te Hau (The wind). But much as she loves the flying, her burning passion is helping injured falcons.

From the kārearea to the humble sparrow, Diana’s house and heart are open at any time, day or night, for an injured bird or abandoned fledgling. She’s happy to take on cases that most people, including vets, regard as hopeless … and she’s even happier to prove them all wrong. Steve, Diana’s husband of 40 years, has grown used to sharing his life and his house with untold injured birds but will still gently suggest she turns the phone off when they go out.

“But I can’t,” says Diana. “If there’s a call at night and I have a vision of a bird needing help, I just have to get there.”

So of course, nobody was surprised when Diana was awarded a Queen’s Service Medal for services to wildlife conservation in last year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours.

FRANK NELSON

Diana Dobson with Fern (left) and Lizzie Macfarlane take their wildlife conservation message into the classroom at Fairhall School.

Photo: Michael Stringer.

Delivery Price Schedule for Marlborough Lines Limited from 1 April 2023

Pursuant to the Electricity Distribution Information Disclosure Determination 2012

This schedule sets out Marlborough Lines Limited’s (MLL’s) line delivery prices to apply from 1 April 2023.

These prices cover the costs of MLL operating and maintaining the electricity distribution network which delivers power to over 26,500 Marlborough consumers. MLL’s costs to recover include charges from Transpower, the owner and operator of New Zealand’s electricity transmission grid which MLL is connected to. The way in which Transpower charges its customers, including MLL, is changing from 1 April 2023. MLL will now also be required to pass through Transpower’s settlement residual credits to electricity retailers trading on MLL’s network – a contributing factor in this year’s price increases.

MLL’s price changes from 1 April 2023 include:

• A small increase for most consumer groups to cover increases in MLL’s costs (note that increases are generally to the fixed price components).

• Increases for remote consumers relative to non-remote consumers. Connections in remote areas cost significantly more to maintain a supply to, higher prices reflect and signal the cost of supplying these connections.

• Increases in the fixed daily charge for Residential Low Fixed Charge consumers from 30c/day to 45c/day consistent with the Electricity (Low Fixed Charge Tariff Option for Domestic Consumers) Regulations 2004.

Any consumer who owns (or purchases) an Electric Vehicle (EV) may like to connect their EV charging point to MLL’s controllable tariff (12 or 16 in this price schedule). MLL charges approximately 3c less per kWh of energy under the controllable tariff. For further information, please contact MLL or your local electrician.

For an ‘average’ residential consumer (DL, DS15) who consumes 8,000kWh per annum, the price increase (post-discount) will be approximately 12 cents per day (4.3%), excluding GST.

MLL passes its prices on to consumers’ electricity retailers who may in turn rebundle these prices. This may mean that you will not see MLL’s prices reflected in the same manner on your monthly invoice from 1 April 2023.

If you are concerned whether you are on the price plan best suited to your circumstances, please contact your electricity retailer.

Further information on MLL’s line delivery pricing, including guidance on eligibility criteria for price plans and a copy of the delivery price schedule, can be found under the pricing section of MLL’s website at: www. marlboroughlines.co.nz

Avengers’ tribute to Zoe

PAULA HULBURT paula@topsouthmedia.co.nz

A beaming smile, blonde hair brushed in a riot of burnished waves, Zoe Osgood left a lasting impression on everyone she met. The Blenheim teenager who lost her two-and-a-half battle with bone cancer on January 10 captured the hearts of the community with her courage, coping with a maturity beyond her 15 years. Now her friends are honouring Zoe, signing up for the Cancer Society’s Relay for Life on March 4 to help fight back against the disease which took her life.

The team of eight, Sylvie Crowe, Bess Cuddon-Corlett, Leni Manson, Jaimee Randall, Emma Staker, Grace Straker, Grace Varney and Samantha Woodhouse, are determined to raise as much money as possible.

Bess says they wanted to do something special to honour their “amazing” friend and came up with the plan before Zoe died.

“We found out about Relay for Life when Zoe was still here, we wanted to do it to have some fun and thought it’d be even more amazing if we did it for Zoe.

“She was a really amazing person and her presence is really missed, there’s a huge gap in our friend-

ship group where she should be.”

Zoe was a talented singer and a staunch anti-bullying advocate who loved spending time out on the water with her family and pet dog Rusty.

She also loved Marvel movies and just weeks before she died, had spent a special day with her family and friends organised by Lifetime Dream Day.

The day included lunch, a flight in a plane and a private screening of Wakanda Forever at Event Cinemas in Blenheim.

Bess says it was a wonderful day where they all had fun together.

“Ever since she passed away, her family have become like a second family to us, we’ve got closer.

“We felt like we had to do something.”

A massive Marvel fan, Zoe collected film merchandise and wore a Marvel inspired bracelet on special occasions. Her favourite Pop vinyl collector characters adorned her casket at her funeral.

Naming their Relay for Life team

Zoe’s Avengers was easy, Bess says.

“We’ll have a photo of Zoe and all wear a whole heap of super hero stuff.”

Zoe’s mum Michelle says she is really proud of the girls for stepping up to help in the fight against

Full circle for college Stars

PAULA HULBURT

It was a chance to go back to the beginning for some of Marlborough Girls’ College Year 12 students recently.

Training for the Stars Peer Mentor programme is underway and for some former Year 9s who went through the initiative themselves, it was a chance to give back.

Graeme Dingle Foundation’s Stars Coordinator Gemma Miller says it is a special moment.

“It was a milestone moment. We are so proud and moved to see this come full circle.

“Obviously it’s always an exciting time, but this year it has an extra-special feeling because the Year 12s that are volunteering as mentors are the first year group who had Stars as Year 9s.

“So, having had the experience of Stars as the ‘little sisters’ they are now giving back as ‘big sisters’. “

A record 78 senior students are on board as Stars Peer Mentors for 2023.

The Stars Peer Mentors had their induction at the end of 2022, and then kicked into training, heading to Outward Bound.

Gemma says everyone and had a blast learning skills and strategies, and about their roles as mentors, with some returning for a second year.

“We’re pumped to get this year underway - and we’re ready to hit the ground running.”

Stars sessions formally begin on Wednesday February 8.

cancer.

“She had found her people and their support has been amazing. Our village really is incredible.”

Relay for Life will take place from 2pm Saturday 4th - 8am Sunday 5th March at Lansdowne Park. Late entry closes March 1 and costs $30 per person. All money raised in the region will be used locally.

The event is gives everyone a chance to celebrate cancer survivors and carers; loved ones lost to cancer; and fight back by raising awareness and funds for the Cancer Society.

Zoe’s Avengers have already raised $4418 and hope to see that total keep going up. Bess says originally they had aimed to raise $500 and are grate-

ful for all the support in Zoe’s memory.

To make a donation to Zoe’s Avengers visit https://relayforlife. org.nz/t/zoesavengers

Scan here to donate

Grieving family targeted by thieves

PAULA HULBURT

A grieving daughter returned from her mother’s funeral to discover thieves had targeted the family’s home.

Jessica Haden Walsh had been saying farewell to her much-loved mum Jospehine Walsh, 76, earlier this month. But the devastated family came home to find thieves had been on the private property and swiped a bell tent worth almost $5000.

Now Jessica is offering a $1000 reward for any information that leads to the return of the tent.

The Kiwi born entrepreneur and co-founder of Lotus Belle tents says the current spate of break ins and thefts in Blenheim is terrible.

“I remember saying to dad that we must check the windows and make sure they’re locked and to let our neighbour know we were going out. We were very vigilant.

“This isn’t about the money, it’s about honesty, I want to reward people for being honest. It’s about integrity, having a brain and being a good human.

“Our tiny little town has changed so much and it’s really sad.”

Jessica, who is now based in Byron Bay, says her family have lived in Marlborough for generations. She has spent the last 14 months at home, helping care for her mum.

Her mum was diagnosed with a terminal neurological condition two years ago but died in January after catching

COVID-19, Jessica says.

“It was just tragic. She was ten days in and I thought she was going to kick it but then went downhill fast.

“I feel very blessed to have been with her when she died.”

Jessica says local police have been helpful but she is worried about the apparent rise in crime.

“What’s happened to our town? This is not Compton LA but honestly feels like it. I

lived in LA for four years and

I think we have more crime here per capita.

“In four years, I didn’t have one thing stolen.

“Shame on you Blenheim you used to be a good town … crime is through the roof. Remember the days when we didn’t lock our cars?”

Police are urging the public to take extra precautions and continue to report criminal activity after an increase in theft and burglary across the Blenheim area.

“Over December and January, there have been upwards of 63 burglaries reported and 41 car thefts,” police have revealed.

Sergeant Graham Single says police are working hard to identifying and apprehending those responsible.

“It’s disappointing to see a spike in this type of crime in our community, we are working hard to hold these offenders to account.

Anyone with any information about the theft can contact Blenheim Police or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or can email paula@topsouthmedia.co.nz

Zoe Osgood, pictured in red, spent a special day with family and friends in December. Photo: Supplied.

marlboroughapp.co.nz

The Lotus Belle tent was stolen while owners were at a family funeral. Photo: Supplied.

GRAPES - Vitis vinifera In the home garden

GAYE WILLIAMSON Garden guru

The grapes are laden at mine and they need covering before the birds devour them – often in an overnight feeding frenzy.

I use to have four assorted vines, but last winter I removed three of them.

My reasoning, how many grapes can one person eat and three were now being shaded by other fruit trees, that I wanted to keep. Grape time is recorded in gardening books as February to May. They are described as half hardy to hardy.

They can withstand severe winter temperatures in their dormant winter state, but early spring at bud burst, they can only tolerate -1 degree frosts. As growing progresses, the flowers and young fruitlets make them even more susceptible and .5 degree frosts is all they may accept, before damage ensues.

Grapes can be described as either sitting in the black or white categories.

Black includes red, red/purple, purple and blue/black grapes. White can include green, amber and an almost translucent amber colour.

Their fruits can be different shapes, often said to be round, egg shaped or oblong. The taste, scent and flavour of the

GARDENING

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grape depends on where they are grown. Grapes are sensitive to both soil and climate. The time the fruit takes to ripen also has a bearing on the flavour.

They can take two years to get going, but then you should harvest 3-6 kg’s of fruit off one vine. If given optimum conditions, your harvest could be 12 kg’s per vine.

CONDITIONS

Grapevines are long lived and deep rooted.

They like well aerated and free draining soil.

They prefer not to have an oversupply of nutrients, especially nitrogen.

Run them mean and lean.

They like full light and a warm, wind protected position.

PRUNING

There are two types:

Spur pruned vines bear fruit on short 2-3 budded spurs. or

Cane fruiting where fruit is produced on 2-4 canes made from the previous seasons growth. This winter pruning is very important.

Summer pruning can just be where the fruit carrying laterals are ‘stopped’ and the leaves shading the bunches are clipped away, so air and light can reach the fruit.

PESTS AND DISEASES

These are usually dependant on

growing conditions and weather. Botrytis (grey mould), downy mildew or collar rot can occur in moist conditions.

Powdery mildew may appear in dry climates.

Insects can include aphids, hoppers, beetles, weevils and caterpillars.

In 20 years I have seen none of these critters.

Wasps can be a problem attacking ripening fruit. Set a simple trap.

Pour a sugar syrup into the bottom of a bottle. They will be attracted to the syrupy sugar smell, fly in - but be unable to fly out. Discourage wasps by removing overripe grapes.

TYPES OF GRAPES

Grafted and cutting grown grapes are usually available from garden centres in winter.

Grafted plants are the more vigorous of the two with their virus free phylloxera resistant rootstock.

They are also able to cope with soggy soils.

Cutting grown grapes may be cheaper but are less vigorous. Grow your own grapes from winter trimmings.

Use a pencil thick trimming. Pick grapes when they are fully ripe as they will not develop further sugar after harvest.

Me – I am off to cover up, as I read that grapes are the oldest fruit know to humans, so worth some attention.

Marlborough is renowned for grapes, so growing some for the table is a good decision if you have the space. Photo: Matt Brown.

Minimum wage increase a mixed bag

Prime Minister Chris Hipkins announced last week that the adult minimum wage will be rising to $22.70 per hour.

But a snap poll from Retail NZ shows business leaders aren’t happy with the increase, with 88 per cent disapproving of the Government decision.

A Retail NZ spokesman says the “significant increase” has not gone down well with retailers.

“Many small business owners do not even earn Minimum Wage out of their own businesses and are now faced with yet another big hike in their wage bill.

“Retailers have told us the real impact this increase will have, with 69 per cent saying they will increase prices as a result, 57 per cent reducing the hours of work available to their teams and 41 per cent planning to reduce staff numbers. In a statement, the Prime Minister says the government is refocusing its priorities to put the costof-living front and centre.

“In tough times, it’s critical to support those who struggle the most to make ends meet,” he says. “We’ve tried to find the right balance. Analysis from MBIE that fed into our decision suggests this increase is unlikely to have a significant impact on unemployment, because it is broadly in line with existing average wage growth across the economy.”

The government will review the minimum wage rate again later this year.

We love it here

Marlborough”.

When Zoe Gray our Membership and Events Manager from the Chamber asked a range of people why they chose to live in Marlborough, the most frequent reply was because “WE LOVE IT HERE!”.

So when Marlborough District Council along with the Chamber and MSD started to come up with an Attraction Campaign to encourage people to move for work in Marlborough, it was the clear front runner as the strap line. With visitors from around

Short commutes to the office of five or ten minutes, one of the sunniest towns in NZ, brilliant wineries, cafes and restaurants, the amazing outdoors, ranging from the Marlborough Sounds, ski fields, mountain bike tracks and incredible national parks right on the doorstep, great schools and an iconic events calendar, it’s a pretty incredible place to live and work.

This regional positivity is against a backdrop of national gloom and concern for the NZ economy, driven by media coverage and the

The latest comments from Infometrics “The prospects for NZ’s economy are increasingly dark.” It seems that a likely recession has rarely been as widely agreed

on by forecasters or as well-signalled by policymakers and partial economic indicators.

It’s always nerve wracking to go against the prevailing views, especially those of “experts”, but on this occasion I think it’s justified. When we look at the size of the grape harvest, it’s only one driver of our regional economy, but it’s a big one. With the record grape harvest in 2022 and another potentially solid looking harvest in prospect this year, the regional economy should be in decent shape.

Not because it just helps a few big companies, but because that money flows down into the local economy as wineries and growers alike invest and develop their businesses using local contractors and companies.

Talking to our members, the prevailing view seems to be one of positivity for 2023, accepting that supply chain issues, inflation and problems recruiting staff make business challenging at the moment, still overall they expect 2023 to be a better year than the last one and a good proportion are looking to expand.

That positivity is reflected in the recent poll from Booking. com (from a pool of over 240 million customer reviews) highlighted Marlborough as the most welcoming place in the southern hemisphere and sixth in the worlds most welcoming regions.

As a region we have a tendency to understate how good the region is, maybe the time has come to start shouting from the roof tops, “We Love it here.”

PETE COLDWELL Chamber of Commerce GM

Marlborough Chamber of Commerce general manager Pete Coldwell. File photo.

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Valentine’s Day hacks for Valentine hacks

Valentine’s Day is here. A day that is more simultaneously loved and hated than the Star Wars prequels.

A day where we can show people we care for them with a handful of plant matter that will decay in a matter of days and a factory produced sentiment on a piece of card at about six dollars a pop. A day where lonely people long for someone to buy them expensive cardboard, or a pretty piece of metal they can wear and say ‘look at this pretty piece of metal I’m wearing’. A day where self-proclaimed independent thinkers fold their arms indignantly and

state with their collective hive mind that Valentine’s day is a scam and that people should show that much care and attention every day rather than one day a year, while completely ignoring that buying your loved one a card, or chocolate, or jewellery, or taking them out to dinner, or whatever would bankrupt you in a few weeks.

A day where your romantic efforts are compared to your partner’s workmates, partners efforts in some kind of sick, blind competition, where you don’t know how well you’re doing until it’s too late.

Love it or hate it, here are some wonderful hacks to survive Valentine’s Day from my vault of log-

ically sound, but morally bankrupt advice.

My Partner complains that it’s become too commercial and lost its original meaning. My advice, have an authentic traditional experience, take your partner to a St Valentine veneration service at your local church, it’s a cheap outing as it only costs what you put in the offering plate and the communion part can be passed off as wining and dining. Or if that’s too traditional and you want something more modern and less commercial for Valentine ’s Day, remember that St Valentine is also the patron saint of Epilepsy.

So book yourselves in for a romantic couple’s blood test and

electroencephalogram and get yourselves tested. My partner believes that we should treat every day as Valentine ’s Day, so won’t do anything special. My advice is to agree. Agree to the point of stupidity. Send them a Google calendar invite to a different classy restaurant every day for the next month. Send them links in Messenger for your favourite fragrances, jewellery, watches, croc charms, whatever, on a daily basis. And when the summons for bankruptcy court arrive in the mail, wistfully muse how it would be much more affordable if they only treated one day a year like Valentine’s Day.

I have no one this Valentine’s Day. Or any Valentine’s day for that matter. Back when I was single I found Ice Cream solved much of this problem. But if you feel you need to keep up appearances, find a plutonic, single friend and send each other Valentine’s gifts somewhere public like work or the gym, under a fake name. When people ask about the mysterious Valentine, you can tell them it’s someone really sweet but a relationship with them won’t work out. This way you aren’t technically lying and you won’t have to maintain a fake relationship. It also leads people to believe that you’re only single because you’re the discerning type. Just a thought

Make it all add up

Jeannine Roodakker offers a wide range of accounting services, all aimed at small to medium-sized businesses, supporting them with those tough business decisions, accounting and tax headaches.

Jeannine is passionate about helping you make your business a success. We work with clients throughout Marlborough; Blenheim, Picton and the Sounds.

5 reasons why you should consider Jeannine at First Class Accounts Blenheim as your Accountant:

1. Affordable: We offer fixed price Xero monthly

accounting packages tailor made to suit your business needs.

2. Honest: We offer up-front set or customised fees.

3. Free up your time: We help you save time by offering access to a range of the latest cloud accounting software such as Xero.

4. Strategic: We help you see the big picture and maximise your financial returns.

5. Passionate: We are eager to help your business succeed.

Call, email or connect with Jeannine today to find out what she can do for you.

Keep on top of the books

says Sonja.

Sonja has a certificate in bookkeeping and a Diploma in Business Management (Level 5) Accounting, is currently undertaking a Diploma in Accounting, is PayHero certified, a certified Xero advisor and offers payroll services.

“I help clients with budgeting as well as teaching them how to use the accounting software to put their business in a better financial position. Many small business owners have little or no experience in bookkeeping so I’m glad to be able to provide good, honest advice and help. I’m with the client every step of the way and see their business grow and go from strength to strength,”

“Part of being a bookkeeper is about staying on top of the latest updates in the industry, so it’s a constant learning process for me to keep developing my knowledge,” she says.

If your accounts are keeping you up at night or giving you a headache, give Sonja a call on 022 130 8533 or email sonja@wizardbooks.net to see how she can help you.

Kia ora koutou. We hope everyone had a great break and you are recharged for the year ahead.

At Intesafety we pride ourselves on being approachable and providing common sense solutions without increasing the paperwork reducing the safety clutter. We find that if you have well trained and supported people the rest takes care of itself, pretty much. It’s all about the people.

Industries we work with in Marlborough = ports, wineries, vineyards, marketing, construction, viticulture contractors, forestry, transport, iwi, land ownership, property management, manufacturing, farming and

many more.

Some of the services we provide = Site safety Inspections, Serious incident investigations, H&S software (ditch the paper, affordable, simple), equipment safety inspections, hazardous substances assessments, H&S training including investigation training, Environmental life cycle assessments, H&S management system assessments, Facility security surveys and much more. We are in Marlborough regularly so get in touch if you need some help or just want to catch up and grab a coffee.

Intesafety, your workplace safety partner. Phone

We can assist you with…

• Managing specific business risks

• Understanding your critical risks

• Reducing your safety clutter

• Streamlining H&S though a simple and cost-effective mobile app

Graham Mahuika General Manager and Principal Consultant

Sounds Security Data – Peace of mind for your communication and security needs

Owner operator Leon Jones has over 20 years of hands-on experience in the industry, making him perfectly placed to offer tailored made solutions for your home or business.

Fully licensed, Leon can handle all networking infrastructure needs providing data points for workstations and verified wireless network solutions capable of handling up to a gigabyte of images, text and video streaming.

From installing and servicing alarms, Sounds Data Ltd offers state of the art solutions to every security need.

Providing access control and internet provider audio visual CCTV, Leon can take care of all installations from start to finish, including monitor installation, display boards and in-ceiling mic points.

His expertise and attention to detail combined with an in-depth knowledge of the market, makes Leon ideally placed to offer advice and results that you know you can rely on.

As a local providing a regional service, Sounds Security Data Ltd is a name you can trust for all projects, big or small, safe in the knowledge that you’re getting the best.

The Runway Cafe & Store

Lisa Stove and Stephen Badham

Providing relaxed café dining, Lisa Stove and Stephen Badham opened the doors to The Runway Café and Store in Woodbourne three years ago and say it has been extremely gratifying watching the business grow to where it is today.

The couple have transformed the building from an empty shell into a diverse art-filled space with a fully licensed bar, delicious local cuisine, spacious indoor and outdoor dining areas - and a mighty Argosy Aeroplane parked outside. No stranger to hectic time schedules, running a business, raising a family and hosting evening events would be a juggle at the best of times but, for Lisa and Stephen, it is all in a day’s work. Prior to opening the café and store, Lisa used to teach and manage a swim school, umpire local netball as a New Zealand official, and play local softball, on top of

managing a household. “Steve and I were relatively new to the industry when we purchased the building although both of us had experience in particular aspects. Every day has its own challenges both in the home and at the café. But when I reflect on the past three years and opening just prior to the epidemic, I feel proud that we have managed to stay operating, thanks to the local community support.”

Working alongside Steve and watching his creativity while transforming the interior of the building has been pretty awesome, says Lisa.

“Our lounge is pretty special with eclectic furniture, artwork and the new addition of ‘The Frame’ tv so we can show special art pieces, plus use it as a means of projection for meetings and functions.” But what truly drives their passion for the business is the people, says Lisa. “We set ourselves up for locals and travellers passing by. Our local community is

awesome, and we have loved getting to know our regulars. The banter is well and truly alive at The Runway!” Stocking and serving up regional and local products, The Runway Café also hosts regular Night Shift events on Friday and Saturday evenings in collaboration with local food truck owners. “We know how hard it is to get staff for hospitality, especially chefs, so our thoughts for this were to offer local food trucks to come in, hook up and cook the food while we open the lounge and outside area to dine in and enjoy the full bar or ‘Fly Around the World’ on the adjoining historic Argosy Aeroplane. Something pretty cool we do, is offer a function which includes boarding the plane for short flights to destinations, before offloading to The Runway Lounge for culinary delights from that country.”

Open Monday – Saturday, follow The Runway Café on Facebook for the latest updates.

Lisa Stove.

Photo: Nikki Andrews.

AMY RUSS

Apex Accounting

Lydia Chadfield and Jess Patterson

A force to be reckoned with, Lydia Chadfield and Jess Patterson from Apex Accounting Limited make it their job to help clients get a full accounting service. Complementing each other’s skillsets perfectly, Lydia brings her flair for the numerical, along with thirteen-plus years of experience as a full-time accountant, while Jess’s business mind brings a certain contentment with clients feeling related to and understood. “We love to help people,” they both say. “We have heard so many people say they have bad experiences with their accountants and that makes us sad. Being our own business, we can do it how we want to and provide a service that we would like to receive. Clients say their business is their baby and means so much to them. Being able to support them and

make them feel confident in running it means a lot to us.”

“Accounting is accounting, and the services we provide are not that different from any other accounting firm, it’s how we deliver it that makes the difference. We like to make people feel comfortable asking us questions and have an open line of communication, providing monthly plans with unlimited contact at no extra charge. We have seen upfront the impact those massive, unexpected accounting bills has had on small business owners and rental investors, and so by having a set monthly cost tailored to our clients we can remove the surprises and provide a better service. We also do time-based work but most of our clients are looking for that stability and knowledge that this is the cost and unless there is something really out of the box it is set at a price they are comforta-

ble with and can manage.” Never compromising on ethics, integrity and the law, Lydia and Jess literally travel across the country to provide sound accounting support to their clients. “Even though we are based in Nelson we are happy to travel to visit clients in beautiful Marlborough. We have clients on the West Coast, Dunedin, and Auckland that we travel to see. Majority of the work can be remotely, however, we do currently travel to the West Coast monthly, and Auckland and Dunedin at times, so we are happy to do in-person meetings in our clients own town.”

Book a free consultation with Apex Accounting and chat about making your business accounts a breeze. “Call us on 03 539 0446 or email directly at info@apexaccounts.co.nz. We look forward to meeting you!” www.apexaccounts.co.nz

2022 Accounts still not done?

Apex Accounting

Lydia Chadfield and Jess Patterson.

Photo: Supplied.

AMY RUSS

A highly specialised and challenging field, FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire provides the installation and maintenance of fire protection systems across the entire Top of the South.

In business for over 25 years, the experienced and professional FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire team pride themselves on reliable technical advice and quality on all of their installations.

Co-directors Kirstin Smith and Thorben Hoffschneider say it is the knowledge that the work they put into the community can help save someone’s life, and their property, is what drives their passion for the sector.

Kirstin has been with FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire for more than 25

years, Thorben since 2017. Complementing each other's strengths perfectly, the impressive duo purchased the business in 2020 and continue to provide a trusted, reputable, leading company for fire protection services.

Attributing to the success of the business are their amazing team and clients, says Thorben.

“Without this bunch of amazing people working together, and with such strong company values and great professional can-do attitude, we could not make it this far.”

Protecting critical assets from dam-

age or destruction by fire is fundamental to any company or organisation, says Thorben. “And there is no challenge out there that we can’t help our clients to overcome.”

Modernising the fleet has helped to improve their coverage of the Top of the South, reinforcing the local FFP Nelson Marlborough team in Blenheim. This has enabled them to

provide high profile organisations and businesses in Nelson and Blenheim with the installation of full fire protection systems and equipment sales, systems testing and maintenance and building warrants of fitness.

The undertaking of some massive projects across the districts include installing fire protection systems in the new

terminal at Nelson Airport and in the Control Tower, Countdown Richmond, Summerset Richmond, Nelson Hospice, the Manuka Street Hospital Extension, Nelson Marlborough Hospital Dialysis Building, Oceanview Apartments, Green Gables Rest home in Nelson, Golden Bay Fruit Ltd, K-Mart Blenheim, Talley’s Mussel Factory and Clearwater

The FFP Nelson Tasman Marlborough team.

Mussels Ltd in Havelock, also projects at Drylands Winery and the extensions of Two Rivers Winery and Churchill Trust Hospital.

“Currently we are working on the extension of the Redwood Retirement Village, which is a business part of the Oceania Group.

This building extension will double the size of their facil-

ity and add a whole new floor level, brand-new commercial kitchen, series of new apartments and social areas to the building. Also, we have been completing fire protection at major hop processing facilities around Tasman.”

With a total of nineteen fully trained and experienced staff on hand who are exceptionally competent to work on many

With over 20 years’ experience in the fire protection industry, we have designed and installed all types of special hazard systems.

"This includes gas suppression systems, foam fire suppression systems, deluge systems and aspirating systems.”

The future of FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire looks bright with the region growing exponentially.

"We noticed a large increase in commercial and residential buildings over the last few years and we know that there is much more in the pipeline.

"Also, we are very excited with all the improvements and investments and to see them playout improving the quality of our services and installations.”

Caring for the community remains a top priority for the team, holding a

Property

special place in their hearts, and they are committed to continuing to serve the region well into the future.

Seeing each project as an opportunity to be part of something significant, and establishing trust, is a hallmark of the business.

“We want to say a big thank you to our community, and to think of FFP when you need to know a bit more about fire protection and to give us a chance to work with you.

"Your business is very much appreciated, and we are here for you when you need us. We know and understand the market in the Nelson and Marlborough regions.

"Our clients know they can count on us to complete a project on time and on budget and compliant with all the legal standards. We are proud of the long-term and trusted relationships we have formed with our clients.”

different fire protection systems, Thorben says they are immensely proud of their team.

“They are problem solvers with a ‘can do’ attitude to get any job done. We are a local company specialising in the design, installation and maintenance of commercial and residential fire protection systems and BWOF management.

"We are truly a one-stop shop.

re pump systems www. rewater.co.nz

Galbraith Engineering Ltd is New Zealand’s leading provider of fire pumps and pump stations for industrial and commercial fire fighting systems.

Galbraith Engineering Ltd is New Zealand’s leading provider of fire pumps and pump stations for industrial and commercial fire fighting systems.

We provide a full design, manufacture and installation service, using best in class pumps backed by expert technicians with many years’ experience.

We provide a full design, manufacture and installation service, using best in class pumps backed by expert technicians with many years’ experience.

Galbraith Engineering Ltd is proud to supply and be associated with FFP Nelson Marlborough.

Galbraith Engineering Ltd is proud to supply and be associated with FFP Nelson Marlborough.

FFP Nelson Tasman Marlborough Co-directors, Kirstin Smith and Thorben Hoffschneider.

Local Menz Shed vital for the community

Stemming from a strong focus on men’s health, Renwick Menz Shed brings like-minded people together in a community space to share skills and work on practical tasks while undertaking small jobs in the community that are too small for tradies to do.

They are part of around 150 sheds across the country, and nine across the top of the South Island from North of Kaikoura over to the West Coast above Reefton and up to Golden Bay. Renwick Menz Shed began in a humble shed at Wairau Anglican Diocese in 2011 and has now outgrown its current capacity. David Packer, Chairman of the Renwick club and a member of the National Menz Shed board, has been involved with the organisation for many years and says the need for the group is vital and a huge benefit to the community. “One of the main reasons Menz Sheds started originally in Australia was the number of male suicides when men came under severe stress or who were living alone and could not see any future, the Menz Shed is about look-

ing after these people, getting them back into the community, and making them feel wanted. It’s all about getting men out of their homes when they retire and find they have no hobbies or not planned for a new life. Our shed members come from all walks of life to work on many different projects where they can learn from each other, pass on their knowledge to others, and to learn to look after one another.”

Playing a proud part in the local community Renwick Menz Shed have worked on a myriad of different projects across the district. “Also, apart from working with the local school, our shed also works with Blenheim Alzheimer’s group and hosts ‘Shed Days’ for some of their residents who enjoy coming to the shed to work on their projects and having a cuppa. One of my highlights during my tenure with the shed, is the joy we have seen when the local schoolchildren who, along with their teacher and caregivers, come to our shed every Friday for woodworking class and the joy on their faces when they have completed a toy and having painted to their colours can now play with it with their classmates.”

The local group has seen a rise in numbers over recent years, and along with it, a growing need to expand the site. “We are very grateful to the Wairau Anglican Diocese as they had originally started the shed back in 2011 and allow us to run our shed from the site. But with a rise in membership, we needed to increase the shed size, so a couple of years ago we purchased a second hand 9m x 6m shed. The members dismantled it and transported it back to our site where it sat while covid was rampant throughout the country. In January last year we rebuilt the shed and raised the roof height by half a meter. With a few grants, many BBQ’s and much fundraising we finally open the new shed last week. It is such a great achievement by our members and local trades and suppliers.”

Located at 54 High Street, Renwick, on the left-hand side of the Anglican church, Renwick Menz Shed is open on Tuesdays from 8:30 am -2:00pm and Fridays 8:30am – Noon. Morning tea is provided.

“All men are welcome! Call in for a cuppa and a chat, look around and join in on our or your projects. Bring your skills and pass them on or learn new skills.”

RENWICK MENZ SHED

AMY RUSS

Chairman Dave Parker and Sowman’s Barry Holmwood. Photos: Matt Brown.

Wairau Anglican Parish minister Joe Keighley, Menzshed chairman Dave Packer and members Graeme Smitheram, Peter Smith and Stuf Moffat.

BACK or NECK PAIN?

Then try a Teeter

WHY

Because they work! Spinal traction is the oldest recorded medical cure for back issues, rst documented by Hippocrates in 400BC, spinal traction was used successfully for many year’s in modern hospitals however because it was a slow process and tied up hospital beds for long periods, was dropped in favor of surgery, which is considerably faster.

A new study recently published in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science brings good news to people struggling with sciatica and lumbar disc disease: surgery may not be your only option for relief. Researchers at Newcastle University found that inversion therapy with a Teeter inversion table o ers back pain and symptoms relief in sciatica patients and may even allow them to avoid surgery altogether.

The case-controlled study evaluated the e ects of regular inversion therapy on the pain symptoms of sciatica patients in line for surgery. The purpose of the study was to, “[measure] symptoms and [compare] the surgery rate following inversion for 85 participants with the surgery rate in 3 control groups.”

Researchers found that lumbar disc disease and sciatica patients in line for surgery who inverted with a Teeter inversion table regularly, were 78% less likely to need surgery than matched individuals who didn’t invert, even as far as two years after the initial trial period.

The study suggests, “…inversion therapy reduces symptoms and the rate of surgery in patients with lumbar disc disease and sciatica.”

Using a Teeter is gentle and relaxing if done properly

WHY TEETER?

Because they are unquestionably the safest, strongest, most comfortable (especially on the ankles) and easiest to operate, Inversion table in the world. Teeter are also the only Inversion tables to meet any and all safety standards for Inversion tables as well as being the only ones FDA approved.

A decision was made by U.L (the top testing facility in the U.S) to test the ve most common brands of Inversion Tables on the U.S market. Teeter was the only brand to pass all tests. All other brands structurally failed in all tests! In the strength test, the best of the cheaper brands structurally failed at only 40% of the test and the worst at 18%. In the endurance test (daily use) the best of the cheaper brands structurally failed at only 12% of the test and the worst at 7%. This is why we only promote Teeter, Inversion is for life, a few minutes of daily use long after your back issues have gone, will help to keep you t and healthy.

I T I S P UR E LOGI C AS TO HOW THE TEETER TABLE WORKS

Discs: It uses gravity to apply traction, the traction gently opens the discs and as they open up they create suction, this suction draws uid from the surrounding tissue back into the discs, re-hydrating them. This is the key! Discs do not have their own blood supply, they rely on trans fer of uid from the surrounding tissue to keep them healthy and hydrated and over the years as discs get thinner with age, they lose the ability to take on uid (just like squeezing a sponge) and they start to de-hydrate.

De-Hydrated discs are less exible, they are harder, more prone to injury, they interfere with nerve roots creating pain and ultimately the de-hydration causes degen eration. The Teeter Inversion table slowly and gently brings the hydration back into the discs, plumping them up. It separates the nerve roots far more e ectively and returns quality of life

Muscles: A lot of pain is muscular, when muscles are stressed they become tight which restricts the ow of blood and lymph through the muscles so toxins build up, Co2 and Lactic Acid. Traction opens up the muscles, Rhythmic Traction, is a gentle rocking motion that stimulates circulation and encourages blood ow through the muscles, which clears the lactic acid into your lymph system where it stimulates lymph ow and deals with it. Most people with serious neck issues see a large improvement after only one treatment.

Posture: Poor posture is one of the major cases of pain and is a major contributor to the deterioration of the body with age. A di erence in leg length causes most of the hip and k nee issues, as they continue to place uneven loads on the joints; similar to the wheels out of alignment on your car.

Trying to correct posture is extremely di cult due to muscle memory, as it constantly pulls the muscles back to where they were. At a level of 40 degrees or more on the Teeter, the muscle groups open up and eventually come back into alignment, using the table daily, does not allow the muscle memory to pull them back out of alignment and slowly the muscles start to lose their memory and go with the ow, allowing the body to come back into correct posture. Then using the table once a day will ensure it is kept there.

This is pure logic, if a machine is out of alignment it does not last long, the only di erence between the body and a machine is that the body is constantly repairing itself, however if the wear and tear on the body is greater than the body’s ability to repair itself, it is a slow decline. The Teeter slowly brings the body out of its decline and allows the body to repair itself, resulting in a far healthier life.

If you are serious about investing in your health and really sor ting your issues out, come see us at one of our local roadshows, you have nothing to lose and chances are, a lot to gain.

Our Back Pain Expos

We host a number of back pain expos throughout the country almost every weekend, these expos are a way for people to try out a Teeter Inversion Table and feel the bene ts for themselves in a way that is instructive and informative.

It is also a great way for people who already own a Teeter to come along and get a refreshment course on the use and operation of their Table and clear any questions they have about it.

Sessions run continuously from 10am to 4pm and there are no bookings required, just come along at a time that suits you. There may be a wait during certain times and in these instances chairs are set out for anyone waiting for a turn, or anyone who just wants to ask us a few questions.

We strive to cover the entire country and always try to book the most accessible venues we can. All our upcoming shows in the region are listed in the blue bar below, otherwise check out our website for more

www.inversionnz.co.nz/agenda

Thames Citizens Band Hall, 301 Queen Street

Saturday and Sunday 12th & 13th February 10am - 4pm

Frank Harwood (84 at time of picture) using his Teeter, Frank’s been Inverting for over eleven years and has found it keeps him young

Wairau are T20 champs

Wairau completely turned the tables on Celtic in the Marlborough senior grade Twenty20 cricket final at Horton Park.

Last season, Celtic scored a commanding victory in the T20 showpiece, on Friday night Wairau made amends in fine style, claiming the 2022-23 title by five wickets.

The defending champs won the toss and decided to bat on a pitch described as “wearing, but with no real demons in it”.

Hoping to register a formidable total, Celtic did themselves no favours with a succession of injudicious shots and poor choices, giving away their wickets far too readily.

After 11 runs were taken from Chris Turkington’s opening over, Wairau took control. Left arm paceman Nick Weaver produced an accurate maiden before Turkington stepped up. He bowled opener Tom Sloan for 13 from nine balls, then had the big-hitting Greg Knowles caught by Mike Hood before bagging his third when he enticed an edge from Joel Logan which was caught by keeper Colin Wood, who rolled back the years to pouch three catches and execute a smart stumping.

A messy run-out, which saw Josh Poole and Tom Sutherland stranded at the same end brought about the end of Sutherland then, when Weaver knocked over Ben Blackman’s poles Celtic were reeling at 19-5, a situation they never recovered from, Hunter Ruffell and Harrison Boyce cleaning up the lower order.

Doing his best to right the ship

was Poole, who ended up unbeaten on 19 from 31 balls but his attempt to forge a substantial partnership was foiled by Wairau’s tight bowling, as the Green and Golds were dismissed for 57 in the 17th over.

All five Wairau bowlers employed produced startling figures. Turkington ended up with 3-19 from four, Weaver 1-3 from three, Ruffell, 2-16 from four, Boyce, 2-18 from four, and Andrew McCaa, 1-1 from just two balls.

Wairau’s run chase began in sedate fashion, openers Hood and Turkington adding 11 from four overs before Hood became the first wicket to fall, bowled by Matt McCormick.

Tarin Mason joined Turkington and pushed the score to 37 before Mason, 17 from 18, was bowled by Poole. Turkington, 17 from 25, had his stumps rearranged by Knowles with just 16 runs need for victory and although Wairau lost Boyce for eight and Weaver for a golden duck, both with the score on 55, there was no panic.

Alex Kennedy joined McCaa at the crease and when he edged the ball to the third man boundary the job was completed in the 13th over and Wairau were able to celebrate adding the T20 title to their one-day victory earlier in the season.

Skipper Nick Weaver said the first six overs in the field set the platform for his side’s victory.

“In our last few games we have gone for 40-50 runs in our first six but today we went for 19 … I think that was the difference. We tightened things up, tried to bowl full, in one area, and set a field to it. Everyone bowled well too, just stuck to the right lines. And, of course, getting five wickets in the

first six overs certainly helped.

“In the run chase we had a plan to go out and attack the bowling, get it over with quickly, but when the guys got out there they felt it was probably not the right wicket to start throwing the bat at the ball. They concentrated on just scoring ones and knew the boundaries would come.”

Wairau were top qualifier for the final and have played consistently.

“This is another good day for the club … we were in a bit of a bad spot a few seasons ago but now, with this group and the way everyone has gelled together, we are getting results,” Nick added.

Round robin games

On Wednesday, the final night of

round robin games was played. Wairau were assured of a final berth, but Celtic, who had a bye, Wairau Valley and Marlborough Boys’ College were all in with a chance of bagging the second position.

Valley and MBC met on the Oliver Park No 2 ground, with Valley needing a big victory over the students to lift their overall run rate high enough to ease past Celtic. They achieved a comprehensive victory, drawing level with Celtic, but ultimately fell short of the required run rate.

MBC batted first and were immediately under pressure, losing wickets rapidly.

A patient 22 from Luke Pannell was their best score as the students were dismissed for just 55 in the 17th over. Matthew Stretch, 3-10, Jethro Moran, 2-3, Sam Boyce, 2-9, and Caleb Speedy, 2-20, were the main wicket-takers.

Valley needed to chase their meagre target down quickly and did so, opener Sukh Aulakh scoring 17 as they reached 56-3 in just the fifth over. Pannell bagged a couple of wickets as the Valley batters hit out. Like Valley, Renwick made their last effort in the competition a winning one, romping past Wairau on the Oliver Park No 3 ground.

Wairau reached 137-8, Mike Hood scoring 44 from 33, Nick

Weaver 25 from 18 and Alex Kennedy 19 from 13. Cody Golding picked up 4-23 for the Green Machine, while Karlis Zvagulis grabbed 2-25.

Renwick lost a couple of early wickets but an unbroken 96 run partnership between Corey Bovey, 72* from 57, and Blair Timms, 48* from 37, saw them reach their target in the 18th over as they won by eight wickets.

Final round robin points: Wairau 20, Celtic 18, Wairau Valley 18, MBC 14, Renwick 10.

Second grade final

The final of the second grade T20 competition was contested at Horton Park on Thursday evening and Celtic Green emerged victorious, defeating United Country & Vineyard Cricket by three wickets.

UCVC batted first and, helped by 22 to former rep batsman Chris Bartholomeuz and 35 to Tarin Mason, reached 130-9 from their 20-over allotment. Wayne Young, with 2-27, and Luke Holdaway, a parsimonious 1-16 from four, were the pick of the steady Celtic attack.

Celtic’s successful run chase of 134-7 was anchored by opener Tom Sloan, 34 from 20, and Buller representative Greg Knowles, with 42 from just 26 balls. Mason, 2-37, and Simon Muir, 1-18 from four, were best with the ball.

The Wairau players celebrate another Celtic wicket on Friday evening. Photos: Peter Jones.

The victorious Wairau team, plus scorer Braden Byrne, top left.

Bowling along nicely

A trip south to compete in the Super Sixes tournament proved fruitful for the Marlborough women’s and men’s senior rep sides.

The Marlborough contingent headed to Christchurch over Waitangi weekend, set to take on rivals from five other South Island centres –Dunedin, South Canterbury, Canterbury, Buller and Nelson.

The format comprised a team of nine players from each centre, consisting of a single, two pairs and a fours combination, competing in a round robin event, with teams able to alter combinations for each round. Most teams used the event as a trial for selection for their intercentre teams which will be named later this month.

The Marlborough women’s team exceeded all expectations to finish second, after ending the competition tied on 41 game points with the strong Nelson combination, but losing out on shot differential. The second pairs combination were undefeated with five wins, along with the fours combination who finished with three wins and two draws. The first pairs combination only dropping one match and the singles player was competitive throughout.

Women’s team selector/coach Lloyd Gallop said, “I was very proud of

Going Coast to Coast

PETER JONES

Marlborough multi-sporters met with notable success in the Kathmandu Coast to Coast which was staged on Friday and Saturday.

the way the group played and supported each other. To finish second to a very strong Nelson team was a very positive result moving forward to the intercentre event back in Christchurch mid March.”

The men’s team finished day one with four wins and one draw to be placed fourth. Day two provided three more wins and a draw, to see them maintain that position. The singles player recorded three wins, one pair had two successes while the other pair had two draws and the fours also finished with two wins. The men’s competition was also won by Nelson.

Marlborough’s effort, in both the men’s and women’s sections, was made especially noteworthy given the fact there were high-performing players from the current and past NZ Black Jacks and development squads sprinkled around the teams.

The Marlborough teams were:

Women: Pauline Bailey, Kiri Bond, Jenny Anderson, Jan Gallop, Pam Stevens, Trish Downs, Colleen Robbins, Patsy Riri, Helen McIsaac. Manager: Mary Riddell. Selector/ coach: Lloyd Gallop

Men: Simon Hitchcock, Damon Hitchcock, Max Brydon, Chase Bishop, Ken Lond, Craig Macdonell, Mike Mehlhopt, Kevan Greenwood, Paul Matheson. Manager: Dennis Mills.

In the hotly-contested two-day individual section, two athletes of different vintage took out their sections. Marlborough Boys’ College youngster Finn McKenzie won the schools title, finishing the course in 12 hours, 35 minutes and 47 seconds to pick up a highly meritorious fifth position overall. In the same race, Nigel Muir, former Sport Tasman boss, came home in 14:13:20 to claim the Classic (50-59 years grade) title. He finished 37th overall.

Finn was chuffed with his firsttime effort, the 16-year-old only becoming eligible to compete this year. He said he had learned plenty from his first outing in the iconic event, suggesting he had gone out a “bit hard” on the first cycle leg and maybe would have been better served to stay in the pack and conserve energy. He enjoyed the paddle leg, a discipline he is just coming to terms with, saying he surprised himself by getting among the leaders in the early stages but realised he has plenty of work to do to stay in touch on the flatter sections.

Another Marlborough athlete in the two-day individual was personal trainer Kylie Senior. She completed the course in 15:02: 45, placing 77th overall, among over 3000 participants.

Kylie was the 13th female home. Saturday’s Longest Day event

took its toll on competitors, notably Coast to Coast veteran Jeremy McKenzie. The 46-yearold Marlborough winemaker damaged his hamstring on the Goat Pass run and battled from there on. Showing the resilience he has become known for, Jeremy completed the course in 13:54:12, ending up 38th overall and fourth in the veteran 40-49 class. He, and his son Finn, are adamant they will be back for another shot at the race next year.

Josh Scott also tackled the longest day, finishing in 15:19:19, for 94th overall, and 20th in the 4049 section.

Another Marlborough multisport veteran, Ian Martella, teamed up with Daniel Stringer and Stuart Barnes to finish 12th

overall and third in the veterans category in the two-day three-person teams event. There were also Marlborough competitors in the Longest Day three-person teams event, Kieran Hickman, Tim McFarlane and Nat Gallant (aka the Boomtown Battlers) finishing 11th. Sara Stocker, Tayla Harrison and Mandy McFarlane all started in the individual section of the 243km Longest Day but did not make the required cut off time.

In other results, Nick Rayner finished in a time of 15:50:43 in the Longest Day, Polly Taylor won the vintage section of the Mountain Run, placing 40th overall, while Stefan Schulze came home 266th in the twoday individual.

Finn McKenzie leads the way in the first cycle leg. Inset: Nigel Muir took out the Classic section of the two-day individual race. Photos: Supplied.

The Marlborough women’s team were narrowly shaded by Nelson for overall honours.

Photo: Supplied.

PETER JONES

Tennis tyros in action

Marlborough hosted the annual Blair Cup junior (under-18) tennis tournament against their Nelson counterparts at Pollard Park on Sunday. Unfortunately for the lo-

cals, the result didn’t go their way, the cup ending up in Nelson hands as a youthful Marlborough combination was shaded 12-4, several close matches going Nelson’s way.

Athletes stretch legs

Marlborough athletes DJ Arbuckle, Dave and James Hansen recently competed in the Capital Classic track and field meeting at Wellington’s Newtown Park.

the men’s javelin with a throw of 40.62m, edging out his son James who finished ninth, throwing 35.90m.

James won the under-20 men’s 110m hurdles in the smart time of 15.17sec, setting a new PB and establishing himself top of

Meanwhile, at the recent South Island Masters Track & Field Champs 2023 at Nga Puna Wai in Christchurch, Carey Dickason came away with seven titles in the W70-74 age group. Her results: 1500 metres7.52.43; 3000 metres - 16.28.02;

James Hansen in action.

Photo: Supplied.

PETER JONES

Josh Harris plays a shot from deep in the court during his singles clash.

Photos: Peter Jones.

Jemima O’Donnell returns from the back of the court.

Kobe Hart concentrates on this shot.

Have you given birth in the last two years at Nelson Hospital or the Motueka Birthing Unit?

We need your help.

Apply to become our Maternity Health Services Advocate

We’re looking for a person in the Nelson region who would like to use their experience to improve maternity health services in the Nelson Tasman region.

Be a voice for the community

This position helps promote equity and ensure services are organised around the needs of our local community. You will help enhance the consumer experience and service integration across the maternity sector.

We’re looking for a passionate advocate who:

• Has given birth in the last 2 years at Nelson Hospital or Motueka Birthing Unit.

• Can attend meetings and have the confidence to speak up in a group setting. Meetings may be held during or outside of usual business hours, in person or via Zoom.

• Will communicate and share developments with whānau, other mums in the community and relevant groups.

• Is be available to review, comment and give feedback on documents, brochures and processes related to maternity services in Nelson to guide developments and initiatives which will enhance the health service delivery.

• Has access to a device with internet. You will be working with another consumer member from the Marlborough District and the wider Consumer Council team who will be there to help mentor and guide you.

Find out more and apply online at: www.nmdhb.govt.nz/Maternity-Advocate

MONDAY

RUMMY-0 CLUB Mon 12.30-4pm Bowls club rooms, Weld St. Ph Joy 577 6191/Mary 5788747

BLENHEIM BEGINNER LINE DANCE CLASSES Mon

2-3pm and Mon 6-7pm. First lesson free, then $6 per lesson after that. Senior Citizen’s Hall, 172 High St. Ph Judith 5787554 or 0212341095

BLENHEIM SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING Mon

7.30pm Whitney St School Hall. No partners needed. Beginners welcome. Ph Heather 02102587325.

MARLBOROUGH GUILD OF WOODWORKERS Mon 9am-12pm, 7-9pm. Wed 9am-12pm. Sat 9am-12pm. Wooden toys & projects. 1st Sun monthly 1-4pm. Brayshaw Park. Ph Philip 5705188.

CARE & SHARE A place for creatives to meet, encourage & share their skills. Mon 9.30am fortnightly. Barnies, Nativity (76 Alfred St). Ph 5783909 for more info.

ROTARY CLUBS in Blenheim, meet Mon & Tues 5.30pm. World-wide service club for men & women, doing great things in your community. For info on meeting venues. Ph Blenheim Club Secretary Andy Rowe 021842928. Blenheim South Club Secretary Dean Heiford 0212462642.

TUESDAY

SAYGO Exercise & Balance for Seniors. 11.30am12.30pm. Ph Diana Brooks Eldercare Coordinator 0212694198 or email diana@stchristophers.co.nz for more info.

SUNBELT TOASTMASTERS Learn public speaking & improve your confidence. Tues 6.20pm Fortnightly. St Mary’s Community Centre. Ph 0276001788 or email sunbeltblenheim@gmail.com

RED HAT SOCIETY The Kiwi Damsels in De-Stress are part of a worldwide organization for women to enjoy fun, laughter & friendship. A specific dress code is part of the fun. This daytime group meets twice a month on the 1st & 3rd Tues mornings. Ph Tina 0211045945.

MARLBOROUGH TENNIS CLUB Parker St. Tues 8.3012pm. Social tennis. Morning tea 10am. Non-members $5. All welcome. Ph Joanna 0275786436

SIT AND BE FIT Tues & Thurs 1.15pm Cost $2. Contact Riversdale Community House 5780469 or 0223007342.

BLENHEIM CHORAL (Marlborough Singers) Tues, 7pm, Wesley Centre, Henry St. New members welcome, no auditions necessary. www.marlboroughsingers.org.

BLENHEIM AIR TRAINING CORP Tues 6.30-9pm RNZAF Base Woodbourne. Recruiting new cadets aged between 13 & 15 for 2023. For more info email: 27sqn@ cadetforces.org.nz

PICTON NEWCOMERS NETWORK 1st Tues of month

‘COFFEE & CHAT’ 10-11am, Seabreeze Café, London Quay. New to town? Need help to settle in? Interested in local activities? We can help! Ph Cathy (Coordinator) 0210451799 picton@newcomers.co.nz

KNITTERS & SPINNERS Meet up Tues 10am, Picton library. Bring your knitting to the library for this social catch-up.

PICTON TABLE TENNIS for adults Tues 10am-12noon. Little Theatre, Picton. $4 per session. Meet people & get

MARLBOROUGH’S COMMUNITY NOTICES

some exercise. Morning tea provided. New members welcome. Ph Ernest 0275888453.

RENWICK MENZ SHED 54 High St Renwick. Left side of church. Morning tea provided. Tues 9am-12pm. Ph Dave 021 0228 2592.

PICTON LINE DANCING Classes restarting Tue 7th Feb from 9.30am. Anglican Church Hall. $6 per class. Beginners welcome. Enquires to Carol 0212125252 or Raewyn 021715484.

WEDNESDAY

PICTON BEGINNERS’ SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE

CLASS Commences Wed 8th March 6.30pm. Cost $40 for six weeks. Picton Little Theatre. Ph Lynda 0212600860 to register.

STRETCH & BREATHE Exercise for Seniors. 10-11.30am

Ph Diana Brooks Eldercare Coordinator 0212694198 or email diana@stchristophers.co.nz for more info.

MARLBOROUGH MULTICULTURAL CENTRE hosts a newcomers morning tea, Wed 10.30am-12noon, 21 Henry St. Opportunities for Newcomers & Marlburians to make friends, practice English & support each other. Everyone welcome. Tea, coffee & biscuits provided. Ven y practica tu inglés. Te esperamos.

HEART HELP SUPPORT Community group dedicated to the well-being of those who live with a heart condition or experienced a heart attack. Offering support to whanau. Meet 3rd Wed of the month, 10am, Quench Chateau Marlborough, 95 High St. Ph Jenny Goss 0211629102.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS casual parents/caregivers catch up, Wed 10.30-12pm, town Plunket Clinic, 16 Henry St. No charge.

MARLBOROUGH CHINESE FELLOWSHIP Chinese Christian group, whether interested in the Bible or Christianity, desiring to grow in the faith, or would like to meet new friends, we welcome you. Wed 6-7.30pm, St Christopher’s Church. 92 Weld St. Ph Guan 0221 642 782, Mandy 0224 326 886.

DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP Meets every Wed 1011.30am to support each other, have regular speakers, outings, share in a safe environment. Ph Alistair Crawford for details 0272 883 032.

MARLBOROUGH VINTAGE CAR CLUB MUSEUM Sun & Wed, 1.30 – 3.30pm, Brayshaw Park, Arthur Baker Pl, Blenheim. Donation appreciated. Other times by arrangement. Ph Bill 0275 784 322.

BLENHEIM PETANQUE CLUB Games held at courts, 65A Weld St, Wed 1-3pm & Sun 10am-12pm. Ph Chris 5787303 or Brian 5742267.

LIONS’ CLUB OF BLENHEIM Serving the community for over fifty years. Would you like to know more about the Lion’s club or are interested in becoming a Lion. Tea meetings held 2nd & 4th Wed. Ph Delphine Lee 0299425004 or Helen Williams 0211458572.

THURSDAY

KEEP U MOVING Gentle walking for Seniors. 11.30am12.30pm. Ph Diana Brooks Eldercare Coordinator 0212694198 or email diana@stchristophers.co.nz for more info.

INVITING YOU TO COMPANIONS for ages 65+, 1st

Thurs of Month. 1pm. Harvest Life Church, 22 Nelson St. It’s free, so no strings attached & there’s YUMMY afternoon tea. We have an interesting programme throughout the year. For more info ph Avon 03 579 2440, Lorraine 03 578 1240, or Shirley 03 578 3728.

COPD SUPPORT AND EXERCISE GROUP Free. Every 2nd & 4th Thurs 1.30pm. Redwoodtown Community Hall, Cnr Weld & Cleghorn St. For more info contact Asthma Marlborough 0272057244.

SOCIAL BADMINTON Thurs morning 9-12noon Simcox

Stadium Batty’s Rd. $5. All adults welcome. Ph Cathy 021 503 348

PICTON TABLE TENNIS Thurs 10am-12pm, Port Marlborough Pavilion, Waikawa Rd. All adults welcome. $4 incl. morning tea. Equipment supplied. Ph Ernest 0275 888 453.

NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS Thurs 7-8pm Riversdale

Community House, 131 Budge St.

MARLBOROUGH AMATEUR RADIO CLUB 2nd Thurs of month, 7.30pm, Emergency Management Operating Centre. For all interested in Amateur Radio, Electronics & Emergency Communications.

KNIT & NATTER Marlborough District Library. We are starting Thurs 26th Jan, then 2nd & 4th Thurs of the month, 10am-12noon, tea & coffee provided. All welcome. Bring your yarn & have a yarn. For info ph Sue 5785317.

FRIDAY

SCAMS PRESENTATION Fri 17th Feb 7pm Riversdale

Community House, 131 Budge St. Presenter: Senior Constable Russ Smith. This presentation will help you understand what motivates scammers, why they target you, what to look out for and how to avoid becoming a victim of a scammer. All welcome. Supper provided.

NATIVITY TUNES FOR TOTS Music, food & fun for pre-schoolers & caregivers. Starting Fri 17th Feb

9.30am. Wesley Centre, 3 Henry St. During term time. Ph 5783909 for more info.

PICTON NEWCOMERS NETWORK ‘SUNDOWNERS’

5-6pm at Café Cortado on the waterfront. New to town? Need help to settle in? Interested in local activities? We can help! Ph Cathy (Coordinator) 021 045 1799 picton@ newcomers.co.nz

LINK Fun & board games & afternoon tea for all in the lounge at Nativity Centre, 76 Alfred St every Fri 1pm. Gold coin donation appreciated. Ph 5783909 for info.

UPBEAT ORCHESTRA community orchestra for all ages, instruments, from beginner-grade 5. St Ninians Church Hall, Alabama Rd every Fri 5-6.30pm For more info email upbeatorchestra@gmail.com

RENWICK SOCIAL TENNIS every Fri 4.30-6.30pm weather permitting. Members $2. Visitors $5. 10 Uxbridge St (behind the Bowling Club). Ph Leigh Andrews 0211913034 or visit our Facebook Page for more details & other upcoming events.

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

WORKING BEE Te Whanau Hou Grovetown Lagoon followed by BBQ. Every 2nd Sunday of the Month, Feb to Nov. Planting & tending trees, weeding, mulching & continued conservation. Meet at Wairau Rowing Club,

Steam Wharf Rd, Grovetown. 9.30am-12pm. Email Justine Johnsonmarlborough@gmail.com for more information.

BAHÁ’Í DEVOTIONS 1st & 3rd Sun, 10.30-11.15am, Marlborough Community Centre, 25 Alfred St, 12th Lane, Blenheim cnr Farmers carpark. “In the garden of thy Heart plant naught but the rose of love”. www.bahai.org.

THE ROADHOUSE BREAKFAST for car enthusiasts of all genres. 1st Sun of month, Riverlands Roadhouse, coffee cart on site, cafe has great food. 100+ cars at each of first two events.

BLENHEIM ROTARY BOOTSALE MARKET Railway Station carpark, Sat 8am-12pm. Blenheim Rotary Bootsale operating over 25 years, funds to local/ international projects. New or used items, plants, food, coffee carts welcome. See bootsalemarket on Facebook.

MARLBOROUGH STROKE CLUB a voluntary organisation dedicated to the wellbeing of those who have experienced a stroke, and to the support of their caregivers. We offer support, friendship & education with various meetings held each month. Ph Vyvienne Dunlop 5783837 or 021929955.

NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS Sat 7-8pm Riversdale Community House, 131 Budge St.

MARLBOROUGH MUSEUM at Brayshaw Park, open 10am-4pm.Maori treasures, Wairau Bar 1250 AD, The Wine Exhibition, Early settlers, Asian Dolls, 1870 to 1970 Fashion, local pottery plus more! FREE entry on Saturdays.

MARLBOROUGH MOUNTAIN BIKE CLUB committed to seeing mountain biking flourish in Marlborough. We hold regular rides suitable for all levels of fitness & ability. Including back country expeditions, easy local rides, more serious mountain bike races. Marlboroughmountainbike@gmail.com.

BLENHEIM FAMILY HISTORY GROUP Interested in Family History Research & building your Family Tree?

Contact us for advice & assistance. Informal gatherings held 3rd Sun of month, 1.30–3pm, Family History Rooms, Brayshaw Park. Ph Lauri 578 8385.

MARLBOROUGH ARTISAN CRAFT MARKET Sat, Market Place. Come down & meet your local craft people. Children’s area with games for young & old. A free Community Site to promote or fund-raise your organisation.

Renwick Tennis Club 8 Uxbridge St.

MARLBOROUGH FARMERS MARKET A&P showgrounds, 9am-12pm Sun, local fresh & seasonal produce & products.

REDWOOD MARKET Redwood Tavern car park, Cleghorn St. 8am-noon every Sat. Plants, garden products, flowers, crafts including handmade soaps, cards & jewellery. Raising money for your community.

CRUISEY CHURCH for kids of all ages & their families. Includes bible stories, games, songs, crafts & dinner. 3rd Sat each month 5-6.30pm. St Andrew’s Church, 5 Henry St, Blenheim. Koha appreciated.

PICTON RAIL & SAIL on the Foreshore. Mini train rides & yachts from 20 cents. Every Sunday & the school holiday’s, subject to weather.

BLENHEIM RIVERSIDE RAILWAY Runs 1st & 3rd Sun

of the month. We have Eftpos. Facebook / Riverside Railway.

MARLBOROUGH TENNIS CLUB Parker St. Every Sun 3-5pm. Social Tennis Non-Members $2 All welcome. Ph Joanna 0275786436

BARNABAS CHURCH BLENHEIM 4pm Sun service. St Ninians Church, corner Riley Cres & Alabama Rd. More info: barnabas.org.nz.

KETO SUPPORT GROUP meets Sat fortnightly (approx. beginning & mid-month), 10am, Revival Cafe, Springlands. Informal gathering of folk interested in this dietary practice. No charge, no obligation - but the coffee’s great! Ph 027 505 7774 for more info.

MARLBOROUGH ASSOCIATED MODELLERS SOCIETY miniature train rides, $2, 1st & 3rd Sun of month, model yacht & boat sailing Sun, 1pm-4pm, Brayshaw Park.

GENERAL GROUPS

BLENHEIM ROWING CLUB Rowing on the Wairau River from the boatshed at 259 Jones Rd, Grovetown. Every Sun from 8.45am. Tues & Thurs from 4.45pm. Novice & experienced rowers welcome, any age. Learn to Row programme. Full details at blenheimrowing.co.nz or contact 027487622.

WEEKLY STEADY AS YOU GO CLASSES Mon 10.3011.30am The Foundry, John St. Tues 1.30– 2.30pm, Union Parish, 40 Broadway, Picton. (2 doors down from Police Station). Tues 11.30am-12.30 St Christophers Hall, Redwoodtown. Wed 1.30-2.30pm, Marlborough Community Centre, 25 Alfred St, Blenheim. For more information call the Age Concern office 5793457. Cost Blenheim $2 per class. Picton $3 per class.

MARLBOROUGH COMMUNITY VEHICLE TRUST Have difficulty getting to medical appointments in NELSON? This trust was created to carry people to Nelson for medical appointments. Ph 574 1311 or email soundsvehicle@gmail.com.

AA MEETINGS Marlborough area. Ring alcoholics anonymous for help to stop drinking. Ph 0800 229 6757. www.aa.org.nz.

PICTON MEN’S COMMUNITY SHED 2 Market St. Wed 8.30am-2.30pm. Sat 8.30am-12noon. Ph Bill Rogers 5735507 or Rex 021469191. A place of welcome for Picton’s menfolk.

BLENHEIM MENZ SHED 4 Dillons Point Rd, Bright Centre Complex. Where men of all ages meet to just chill out or do projects for themselves or the community. We provide equipment, tools & workspace for most woodwork & metalwork projects. Open Sat 9am12noon. Mon & Thurs 1-4pm. Ph Dave 0212340057. SENIORNET MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS Linkwater Hall, Queen Charlotte Drive. Our tutors are available for people 50+ who need assistance with their computer or smart phone. Contact Secretary Ian Cameron (03) 574 2558 to arrange.

BROOKLYN CROQUET CLUB Tues, Thurs, Sat, 1pm Golf Croquet, Whitehead Park grounds, Brooklyn Dr. Mallets supplied.

MARLBOROUGH TRAMPING CLUB A very active club. Mid-week & Sunday trips, plus overnight & extended trips. Find info at http://www.marlboroughtrampingclub.co.nz or marlboroughtrampingclub@gmail.com

COMMUNITY NOTICES ARE FREE TO COMMUNITY GROUPS, SCHOOLS, CHURCHES, GOLD COIN DONATION EVENTS & FUNDRAISING ONLY. DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY. 50 WORDS OR LESS. TO ADD A COMMUNITY NOTICE PLEASE CALL 928 4121 OR EMAIL HELLOMARLBOROUGH@TOPSOUTHMEDIA.CO.NZ . DUE TO THE POPULARITY OF THIS COLUMN, WHILE EVERY EFFORT WILL BE MADE, INCLUSION CANNOT BE GUARANTEED FOR FREE ADS.

SUPERVISORS & RUNNERS

Carpenters / Contract

2023 Grape Harvest Tractor &

Machinery Operators for 2023 Grape Harvest

We are currently seeking experienced tractor & harvester operators for the 2023 season. You will need a Full Class 1 driver’s licence to operate the machinery.

We anticipate work will commence mid-March for approximately four weeks. Operators must be available to work extended hours and weekends.

It is important that you are a team player, as it is very important for our operators to work together in small teams, often long hours to get the job done on time in a professional manner.

Please email CV with references supporting your application to tim.leslie@valleyharvesting.co.nz

Phone: (021) 54 40 70

• Enjoy a drink, a bit of banter and a laugh after a hard day’s work?

• Like getting dirty from time to time?

• Want to work in a small, local business and have variety in the machinery and projects you do?

MultiDig is a successful local business looking to grow, and we know our people are what makes us who we are. We get involved in anything from irrigation trenching to driveway prep, subdivisions and residential development, landscaping, and topsoil supply, we cover anything that involves the dirt.

We pride ourselves on doing what we say we will, being upfront, honest, and reliable and this carries right through the business.

If this sounds like you too, and you have a full driver’s license, ideally with a minimum class 2, a good safety record and experience in heavy machinery get in touch with Tony on 021 52 5269 for a confidential chat or email admin@multidig.co.nz

You don’t need to be an athlete, but a good degree of health and fitness is a must.

REACHING THE MARLBOROUGH COMMUNITY

If You Love to Sing!

A free course exploring life, meaning and faith.

Dessert and info evening Saturday

Feb 18th at 7pm, Salvation Army Lounge. Henry Street, Blenheim. All Welcome. Contact Anna 0277599418 or harperanna@yahoo.com

Blenheim Choral are excited to be presenting Carmina Burana at the ASB Theatre in September. If you love singing, come and join rehearsals for this spectacular choral work.

Tuesday, 7pm, Wesley Centre, Henry Street. Call 021 143 8423 for more information.

priced

2 From one day to the next (9)

3 Tell (6)

5 Declare (4)

6 Armed forces clergyman (8)

7 Author of Gulliver ’s Travels (5)

8 Malicious gossip (7)

11 Seize by legal right (7)

14 Thai capital (7)

17 In a depressed state (2,1,3,3)

18 Protesting hotly (2,2,4)